Article published Apr 16, 2007
By REBECCA HELMES and NATALIE CHANDLER
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com
A newly signed law ensures that students in Mississippi public schools will exercise more and be taught how to lead healthier lives.
It also means school districts across the state could have to shuffle their staffs or possibly do some hiring to meet the new requirements.
Among the provisions of the Mississippi Healthy Students Act are:
Public schools will provide 45 minutes of health education and 150 minutes of exercise per week for elementary and junior high students beginning this fall. Additional physical education or physical activity requirements are also required before high school students are eligible for graduation.
By the 2008-09 school year, districts must add tobacco and illegal drugs abstinence education to their currently established wellness plans.
And by March 1, 2008, the Mississippi Department of Education must adopt school food preparation regulations aimed at promoting health and fitness.